A Chinese Manufacturer Might be Launching Some Pro Lenses

Not too long ago, we wrote an in-depth article analyzing the boom of third-party Chinese lenses in the industry. For the better part, these devices have been excellent in various aspects, such as the performance offered at a considerably lower price point and ease of use. Now, it appears some are really keen on creating new innovative lenses to further push the trajectory of third-party devices. According to a new report, a third-party Chinese manufacturer of lenses is working towards developing three zoom autofocus lenses.

In an article published on Sony Alpha Rumors, the author noted that a reliable leak on Weibo, a Chinese social media platform, revealed that “Chinese zoom autofocus lenses” are currently under development. “Mr. Ma has confirmed through news channels that two domestic brands are currently developing new zoom AF lenses. One of them has approved two full-frame zooms, AF lenses, and at least one APS-C frame zoom AF lens, and the first launch of the bayonet mount is E and Z,” reveals the report.

But that is not all. According to the article, an F1.4 full-frame AF lens is also being developed. “If everything goes well, it is expected that one or two F1.4 large aperture AF lenses will be launched in 2024, ensuring one and striving for two, with commonly used focal lengths, and the first launch of the bayonet mount is E and Z,” the document concludes.

While Viltrox and 7Artisans already have AF lenses, they happen to prime one. One of the greatest challenges in a zoom lens is fixing the autofocus algorithm, which can be complicated. However, the news suggests otherwise, as it seems a third-party Chinese manufacturer of lenses has unraveled the key.

While the name of the third-party Chinese manufacturer has not been revealed, Sony Alpha Rumor believes that Viltrox will be the first company to achieve the unachievable. The reason behind it is the tease of fast primes, as the report adds:

• Viltrox AF135mm F1.8 LAB E full frame
• Viltrox AF35mm F1.2 LAB E full frame
• Viltrox AF50mm F1.2 LAB E full frame
• Viltrox AF85mm F1.2 LAB E full frame
• Viltrox AF35mm F1.4 Pro E full frame
• Viltrox AF50mm F1.4 Pro E full frame
• Viltrox AF85mm F1.4 Pro E full frame

While a zoom AF lens sounds exciting, the lack of weather resistance remains a prominent concern. Our Gear Editor, who tested the Viltrox 28mm F1.8 lens, previously noted that the affordable price tag of $400 comes “with a trade-off – the lens lacks weather sealing.” While the lens performed decently, the build quality was a concern. “While it held up well in dusty conditions, it’s not ideal for heavy downpours. The exterior feel adds a touch of quality, though a plastic lens hood slightly detracts from this impression,” he wrote.

So, if the new zoom lenses feature a similar build or lack coating, we don’t know how they can be much different from the lenses Chinese manufacturers already offer us now. Similarly, as our Editor-in-Chief, Chris Gampat, wrote in his article about TTArtisan’s 28mm F5.6 lens for Leica M mount, that while there is “no weather resistance.” However, that did not deter him, as the original lens, too, lacked the same.

We believe that if the zoom lenses by the unknown Chinese manufacturer achieve weather resistance, the chances of such lenses becoming more sought after are higher. However, what the new developments offer photographers remains to be seen.